women – Page 2 – The Monongah Disaster

Monday, December 16, 1907, Afternoon

“Uncle Jack Cutright started to Monongah, but played out when he got to the top of the hill and turned back. Too much for Uncle Jack.” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. )

~12:30 pm

At the Yolande mines in Alabama:

JVC 12.19.07 pg 1

“For two hours after the explosion it was impossible to venture even near the mouth of the mine, so hot was the air that rushed out.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)

“The number of men employed should be between fifty and seventy-five, but this being Monday after pay day it is doubtful if the full force was at work.” (JVT 12.19.07 pg. 1)

“The first men who got out, fourteen in number, were working at the time on sub-entry No. 2. The belief of many was that the men still under them were either dead or would die before relief could reach them.” (JVT 12.19.07 pg. 1)

~2:00 pm

In Yolande, AL:

“At 2:20 o’clock Monday afternoon four dead bodies are known to have been taken from the mines of the Yolande Coal and Coke Company, at Yolande, Ala., and it is not known how many more there are inside the mines. The odds seem to be, however, that many of the remaining fifty or so are dead.” (JVC 12.19.07 pg. 1)

“Matthew Humphrey, John Smedley and Harris Hall are said to be the three first victims, and it is understood that their were the bodies first brought out.” (JVC 12.19.07 pg. 1)

~ 3:30 pm, Press Time

In Fairmont:

FCC announces it will pay people on Saturday to give them some Christmas money. “The pay will be a very good one.” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 1)

In Monongah:

CDT 12.16.07 - pg 1 - Monongah 1 — CDT 12.16.07 – pg 1

“No bodies were recovered from the mines today.” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 1)

“According to the census reports of the company there are but ten bodies yet undiscovered. The census shows 344 persons unaccounted for. Of this number 334 bodies have been buried except Mike Savi, the last man to be taken out.” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 1)

CDT 12.16.07 - pg 1 - State Committee — CDT 12.16.07 – pg 1

“The mining investigation committee of West Virginia has been called to meet here tomorrow for the purpose of probing the mine horror at Monongah. The committee will organize here and may have most of its sittings at the Waldo, but it will visit the scene of the disaster and make a thorough investigation.” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 1)

During the afternoon

In Yolande, AL:

“Coffins and surgeons, the latter equipped with supplies of all sorts, were rushed from Birmingham on the afternoon Birmingham Mineral train.” (JVC 12.19.07 pg. 1)

“The men who escaped got away through what some describe as a fiery furnace, and it is hinted that some of the victims may possibly be neither suffocated nor killed by the shock, but may be burned alive before aid can reach them.” (JVC 12.19.07 pg. 1)

In Clarksburg:

“Patrick McDonald, who was injured in the Monongah explosion, has been discharged from the Miners’ hospital at Fairmont and brought to this city, where relatives are looking after him.” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 8)

In Fairmont:

The Jenny Wren Club meets at the home of Miss Amy Williams. “The members are busy making Christmas gifts for the little orphans at Monongah…” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 5)

At #8 in Monongah:

Fires are discovered in #8 mine. (McAteer)

One is “burning fiercely” when found on the 1st south face, 2nd right, room #10. It is fought with a brigade of water carried in buckets from the end of the water line which had been laid in the mine a week prior. (McAteer)

Another fire is discovered on the left rib of room #3 in the 3rd right room heading. It had been smoldering for 5 days & nights but the introduction of fresh circulating air finally got it burning hard. (McAteer)

Both fires are extinguished quickly, and there are no more interruptions of this sort. (McAteer)

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Bibliography

Disclaimer and Guide

Introduction

Issues with the Monongah Timeline

About the Author

Contact Information

Monday, December 16, 1907 Morning

Early Morning

Near St. Mays, WV:

Charles Ankrom, 65, prominent farmer and citizen of Ben’s Run, wakes up early and starts fires in the living apartments and then goes to the kitchen in the rear. After starting a fire on the kitchen stove he stepped out onto his rear porch. It was still dark and Charles stumbled over a bucket or some obstruction which threw him into the window. His weight broke the glass and a sharp piece of the pane in some manner severed the large artery on his left arm near the shoulder and he bled to death in a short time. It seems that the cut was so near the shoulder that it was impossible to bandage it to prevent the loss of blood. (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)

Morning

In Fairmont:

The Fairmont West Virginian reports the upcoming weather as: clear and cold. (FWV 12.16.07 pg 1)

12.16.07 - pg 4 - Little girl donates — FWV 12.16.07 pg. 4

At the mines in Monongah:

12.16.07 - pg 1 - Relief Committee 3 — FWV 12.16.07 pg 1

“Sunday not much work was done in No. 8 owing to the condition of the air but this trouble was fixed Monday morning and the work progressed again.” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 1)

A Pennsylvania Delegation is in town to inspect Monongah and attempt to establish the cause of the disaster. (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 8)

State Mine Inspector James W. Paul and deputies examine the interior of No. 6 today “to gather evidence for the coroner’s jury as well as for the state legislative board. The coroner’s inquiry will begin the latter part of this week.” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 1)

~10:30 am

In Yolande, AL:

CDT 12.16.07 - pg 1 - Yolande — CDT 12.16.07 pg 1

An explosion in Yolande No. 1 Mine in Alabama becomes disaster #3 of Bloody December.

“The Yolande mine is operated by the Yolande Coal & Coke Company and is located thirty-five miles south of Birmingham.” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 1)

The mines go down something like 1,500 feet. The explosion occurred below the 2nd right subentry. “The force was made known outside by the dust and timbers that were blown out in great quantities, destroying small buildings nearby and landing some distance away.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)

“The estimate of fifty men underground is based upon the number supposed to have been at work at the time. The mine was a non-union slope, and was operated largely by native American labor, white and colored, about half of each. Other reports say that there are as many as 125 entombed, and that the pumps cannot be gotten into operation.” (JVT 12.19.07 pg. 1)

Officers of company immediately took steps to start a rescue party to get to the men on the inside. The fans were started and other means employed to eliminate the bad air. (News)

~11:30 am

In Yolande, AL:

Within an hour 14 men had crawled out of the mine, and their description of the interior conditions were terrible. Several of these men were severely burned. (News)

“From sixty to seventy-five men are reported entombed in Yolande mine in Tuscaloosa county as the result of an explosion.” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 1)

“Crowds of women and men quickly gathered around the mine entrance, and were cheered by news that all the fans continued to work.” (ES 12.16.07 pg. 2)

In Monongah:

A joint meeting of Executive and Subscription committees of the MMRC is held at Postmaster Fleming’s office at which many of the details of the committee’s work was determined. (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 1)

These committees will have their headquarters in rooms Nos 214 and 216 on 2nd floor of the Masonic Temple. The Masonic building committee donated the use of the rooms and the Fairmont and Clarksburg Traction Company has donated the light and the Fairmont Gas and Light Company has donated the heat. Offices will be furnished by FCC. (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 1)

George DeBolt will look after the work. (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 1)

In Fairmont:

The WV Legislature Joint Committee is called to meet at the Hotel Waldo in Clarksburg this evening.

Mr. Jas. E. West, of Washington D.C., is the personal representative of Mr. Theodore Dreisser, editor of the Delineator, and in Fairmont “with a view of finding something of the conditions in the homes at Monongah…” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 4)

“Mr. West says the Home Placing Agency in WV alone which works in connection with the Delineator in caring for homeless children, has more places to fill than there are orphans at Monongah and that Mr. J. Eagle, of Fairmont, the State agent, with the aid of the Delineator will assist in placing all the children that need homes.” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 4)

With all the talk and good intentions behind the arrangement for orphanages, the local people “would rather have the kids placed with families than in orphanages.” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 4)

“Mr. West went to Monongah this afternoon to make a personal visit to the homes of the people.” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 4)

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Sunday, December 15, 1907 Night

“Sunday was expected to be one of the most important days of Cumberland’s response to Monongah’s call for aid. Despite the fact that there were unusually large congregations in all of the churches, owing to the special call by the Anti-Saloon League, a large number of the ministers failed to pay attention to this GREAT CALL FOR HELP FROM A STRICKEN CITY.” (CET 12.16.07 pg. 1)

6:30 pm

Goff Methodist Episcopal – Epworth League devotional services. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 3)

Presbyterian Church – Senior Society (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Topic, “Confident Testimony for Christ” Luke 12:11-12, Acts 4:13-33

First M.E. Church – Epworth League, leader P.B. Henry (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Topic, “The Straight Gate”

M.E. Church South – Epworth League service led by Miss Jessie Ice (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Subject, “Grounds of our Missionary Obligation” Rom 1:14-17

First Baptist Church – B.Y.P.U (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Subject, “The Magnificat: A Christmas Song”

Palatine Baptist Church – B.Y.P.U (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

Subject, “Confident Testimony for Christ”

First M.P. Church – Christian Endeavor, led by Mrs. S.A. Shuttlesworth (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

Diamond St. M.E. Church – Epworth League prayer meeting, led by Mrs. Cordelia Harden (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

Subject, “The Straight Gate”

7:30 pm

Goff Methodist Episcopal – public worship with sermon by J.E. Bird, pastor. “Collections for the mine sufferers at Monongah will be taken both morning and evening. All are cordially invited to attend all of these services. You will be welcome.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 3)

M.P. Temple Church senior service.

Subject of sermon, “The Problem of Disasters” with special reference to the bright side of the Monongah disaster. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

M.P. Temple-People's Temple Methodist prodestant - Agape - map - C

Presbyterian Church service – Rev. H.G. Stoetzer, pastor

Text: Job: “Now Man See Not the Bright Light in the Clouds” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Subject of sermon, “Some of the By Products of Coal…(unclear)…may Come out Great Calamities.”

First M.E. Church service – G.D. Smith, pastor (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Subject of sermon, “Some Reflections on the Mine Disaster.”

M.E. Church South service – R.T. Webb, pastor (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Grace Lutheran Church service – A.G. Null, pastor(FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Subject of sermon, “Prevailing Prayer”

Central Christian Church services – W.H. Willison, pastor (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Subject of sermon, “The Best Time to Save Men.”

First Baptist Church services – W.J. Eddy, pastor (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Subject of Sermon, “A Great Personal Question”

Christ P.E. Church – evensong (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Catholic services at St. Peter’s – Evening devotions consisting of Rosary and benediction. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

St. Peter's - Fairmont - LibraryofCongress - map - E

St. Peter's - Fairmont - LibraryofCongress

Palatine Baptist Church – evening service – T.B. Lawler, pastor (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

Special sermon by Rev. G.D. Griffin of Morgantown (FWV 12.16.07 pg. )

“Rev. Griffin is an able speaker and his sermons were greatly enjoyed by all present.” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. )

First M.P. Church – Rev. U.W. Morrison, pastor (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

Subject of Sermon, “Utility of Desire”

Diamond St. M.E. Church – Rev G.W. Bent, pastor. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

Subject of sermon, “The Interruption of the Plans of Men.”

Night

In Fairmont:

“Collections were taken in several of the churches Sunday for the Monongah mine sufferers, with good success notwithstanding the inclement weather conditions kept a good many persons away from the services.” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 1)

“At the Catholic church the handsome sum of $150 was raised for the sufferers. The congregation of Italians who gathered at the hall contributed through the efforts of the Rev. Father P.M. Schoenen $12.40 and a large box of wearing apparel and other articles.” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 1)

“At the Park avenue Lutheran church the congregation was small but $7.50 was raised.” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 1)

“At the morning and evening services at Goff Methodist Episcopal church $100 was raised for the sufferers.” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 1)

In Monongah:

“Since press time Saturday the bodies of 9 miners…have been recovered, making 334 in all.” 12 bodies in all during Saturday and Sunday. (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 1)

“Bodies were recovered as follows Saturday night and Sunday, bringing the number of recovered bodies up to 334 Sunday night:

“All of the above were taken from No. 6. These bodies were all found either under falls or in the water and the majority of them were in a bad state of decomposition.” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 1)

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Sunday, December 15, 1907 Afternoon

Note: Many churches which were present in 1907 have either moved location, merged with other churches, or are simply not in the area anymore. For research and educational purposes, I have included snapshots from a Vintage map of Fairmont and Palentine from 1897 which is available online for view and/or purchase and I highly suggest referencing this map with this Timeline, rather than using modern maps. If there is a modern counterpart to this map image, it will be included though accuracy is not guaranteed for various reasons. (Ex: First Baptist Church in the vintage map versus its location today. The current First Baptist is on what was once Fairmont Farms, owned by the Watsons in 1907. According to the 1897 map, First Baptist was closer to downtown around the turn of the century.)

In Fairmont:

2:00 pm

Presbyterian Church – Junior Christian Endeavor Society (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Diamond St. M.E. Church Junior League (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

M.E. Church - map - J — Building “J” is designated as the M.E. Church on Diamond Street in 1897

First Baptist Church Sunday School meets (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

First Baptist - map - F — Building “F” is the location of First Baptist according to the 1897 map.

First Baptist Church Fairmont, WV — Current location of First Baptist Church on what used to be Fairmont Farms, beside Watson’s Highgate mansion.

2:30 pm

M.P. Temple Church Junior endeavor with Mrs. R.C. Jones in charge (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

First M.E. Church Junior League meets, Miss Nettie Bartlett, Superintendent (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

First Baptist Church Sunday School meets (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

3:00 pm

Presbyterian Church – Intermediate Society (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Diamond St. M.E. Church holds class (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

Palatine Baptist Church – service at Calvary (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

During the afternoon

In Grafton:

Ed. Rankin, a “tramp” from Kaneville, OH is riding in a freight car when he gets caught between some lumber and crushed to death. (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 7)

“Lumber was stacked up in the car in two separate piles and when the train reached West Union it came to a rather sudden stop with the result that the lumber piles, between which Rankin was riding, were thrown together with a force that instantly crushed the life out of the unfortunate traveler.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 7)

“Benjamin English, another tramp of Glocester, OH who was riding with Rankin, narrowly escaped with his life. It is he who identified Rankin. Rankin’s remains were lifted from the car and taken to an undertaking establishment at West Union where they were prepared for burial and the interment was made at West Union in the potter’s field.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 7)

At the mines in Monongah:

At some point, John Graham Smyth sends notes to the surface asking for more rubber boots; the leather boots of the workers are not lasting. Smyth also requests more lye for sprinkling on stock as it is taking more than 5 pounds per head. Smyth argues with those on the surface that the cotton gloves supplied are inadequate and rescuers need rubber gloves and a solution to wash with after handling each body. Ultimately, E. Scott declines his request – citing the cost of rubber gloves. (McAteer)

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Sunday, December 15, 1907, Morning

“The weather was disagreeable…” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 4)

7:30 am

In Monongah:

“No bodies have been found…since last night, when the total reached 322.” (ODB 12.15.07 pg. 1)

In Fairmont:

Religious services dominate the day throughout the area. Last Sunday, services around the area were short and light due to massive amounts of people flooding into Monongah. This Sunday, even the rescuers have the opportunity to step away from rescue work and attend services if so desired.

Christ P.E. Church – Eucharist, Rev. M.A. Barnes (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

8:00 am

Catholic services at St. Peter’s – Rev. A. Boutlou, pastor (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

9:00 am

Goff Methodist Episcopal, class meeting, M.S. Riley, leader – J.E. Bird, pastor (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 3)

9:30 am

M.P. Temple Sunday School meets; Wm. Conway, superintendent (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Presbyterian Church Sunday School meets – Prof. J. Walter Barnes, superintendent (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Christ P.E. Church Sunday School meets (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Palatine Baptist Church Bible School meets with Supt. W.A. Hustead in charge and the subject: “The Boy Samuel” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

Diamond St. M.E. Church Sunday School meets in charge of Supt. E.A. Willison. “Willison requests that the patents of the children in the primary department of the M.E. Sunday school make an effort to have all of the children present Sunday morning.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

First M.E. Church Sunday School meets, C.W. Evans, superintendent. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

M.E. Church South Sunday School meets, Dr. L.N. Yost, superintendent (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

First Baptist Church Sunday School meets (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Central Christian Church Sunday School meets (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

First M.P. Church Sunday School meets, J.A. Swiger – superintendent (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

9:45 am

Grace Lutheran Church Sunday School meets, the hour will be utilized for a rehearsal of Christmas service. Also a rehearsal will be had in the afternoon. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Goff Methodist Episcopal – Sunday school, Harvey W. Harmer, superintendent. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 3)

10:00 am

Catholic services at St. Peter’s – Rev. A Boutlou, pastor (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

10:30 am

M.E. Church South service – R.T. Webb, pastor (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

10:45 am

Presbyterian Church service – Rev. H.G. Stoetzer, pastor

Text: Psalm 90:12, “So teach us to number our days that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” Subject of Sermon, “The Right Idea of Life” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Goff Methodist Episcopal – sermon by pastor J.E. Bird – “The Gentleness of God” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 3)

First M.E. Church services – G.D. Smith, pastor

Subject of sermon, “The Delays of God” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Grace Lutheran Church service – A.G. Null, pastor

Subject of sermon, 9th and 10th Commandments (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

M.P. Temple Church services – J.C. Broomfield, pastor

Subject of sermon, “Sustained Shining or the Secret of a Faithful Life.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Christ P.E. Church – morning prayer and litany (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

First Baptist Church services – W.J. Eddy, pastor

Subject of sermon, “Some Lessons From a Missionary Standpoint from the Monongah Mine Disaster.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Diamond St. M.E. Church – Rev G.W. Bent, pastor.

Subject of sermon, “A National Bereavement” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

Central Christian Church services – W.H. Willison, pastor

Subject of sermon, “Some Conditions upon which God Answers Prayer.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Palatine Baptist Church – morning service – T.B. Lawler, pastor (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

Special sermon by Rev. G.D. Griffin of Morgantown. “Rev. Griffin is an able speaker and his sermons were greatly enjoyed by all present.” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. )

First M.P. Church – Rev. U.W. Morrison, pastor.

Subject of Sermon, “Necessary Things” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

11:45 am

Diamond St. M.E. Church holds class (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)

In Monongah:

Public services are also held in the cemeteries “in memory of many victims interred before being identified.” (McAteer)

The last resting places of many are designated only by stakes inscribed with the number of the funeral. However, for several days cemetery workers have been dealing with a special issue of their own:

“Identifications at the cemetery were greatly hindered by the ignorance of some of the bereaved. Several of these people, thinking to save funeral expenses, would allow relatives to be buried ‘unknown’. This was discovered by sticks and other marks found nearly every morning beside newly made graves. Many of these markers were destroyed by the workmen, but in every case the next morning another mark appeared such as notches cut in fence posts, or another stick or cross beside the grave. It was also found, that among the foreigners some would claim as their own a body which had been full identified otherwise by relatives, insisting that they be buried in a certain grave, and when this request was not granted, these graves would also be marked with a name other than the occupant.” (Haas)

At the mines:

“…not much work was done in No. 8 owing to the condition of the air…” (CDT 12.16.07 pg. 1)

As passing time made removal of bodies more difficult, rescuers turned to lye to destroy decomposing animals and, no doubt, some men’s bodies. (McAteer)

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Saturday, December 14, 1907, Night

~8:00 pm

The MMRC releases an appeal to the general public for funds via telegraph and media. Relief Committee members are enlisted to send letters to newspapers throughout the country. (McAteer)

Subscription committee holds meeting and drafts an appeal to be sent out to publications, prominent individual, boards of trade and chambers of commerce throughout the country. (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 1)

During the night

J.W. Paul returns from Naomi mines. Coroner Amos and Prosecuting Attorney Lowe have been waiting on him to return to decide the date to begin the inquest. (FWV 12.14.07 pg.1)

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Photos of Mt. Cavlary Cemetery (Polish & Italian Catholic Cemetery) in Monongah, luminary tribute, 2007. Photos by Katie Orwig.

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Saturday, December 14, 1907, News Hour

Newspapers

The Fairmont West Virginian:

12.14.07 - pg 1 - Summary of Relief funds — FWV 12.14.07 pg 1

Local Union No. 428, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America publish letter of sympathy and offer of support to Monongah. “Whereas, while we are aware that mere words embodied in resolutions cannot speak away the great sorrow felt by so many in this early hour of their bereavement, yet we sincerely hope that it will be a source of consolation for all those to know that many faithful friends desire to express their sympathy, and are willing to assist in any way that we can to alleviate the suffering and distressed.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 4)

Mining Investigation Committee is appointed by J. H. McDermott to meet Dec. 18th for the purpose of making an investigation into the Monongah disaster. Committee is composed of Senators Gartlan and Kidd, and Delegates Duty, Strickling and Mitchell. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Clarksburg Daily Telegram:

“Three more bodies were recovered from Monongah mine No 6 today, bringing the total number recovered up to 325.” (CDT 12.14.07 pg. 1)

“The three bodies brought out today have not yet been identified.” (CDT 12.14.07 pg. 1)

12.14.07 - pg 1 - Church Collection 1 — CDT 12.14.07 pg. 1

CDT 12.14.07 - pg 1 - Cleveland gives — CDT 12.14.07 pg. 1

“The opera house was crowded with contributors to the relief of the victims of the Monongah disaster, who gathered to see the benefit performance of the combined theatrical companies now in Cleveland. From seat sales, $1,563 was realized, and from other sources enough more was gathered to swell the total to $2,000.” (CDT 12.14.07 pg. 1)

“The collections outside the theater were $500 during the day, and the chamber of commerce, appealed to by the mayor of Fairmont, began the collection of donations from its members, to be rushed to the scene.” (CDT 12.14.07 pg. 1)

CDT 12.14.07 - pg 1 - Toledo — CDT 12.14.07 pg 1

12.14.07 - pg 2 - Monongah — CDT 12.14.07 pg 2

12.14.07 - pg 3 - Goff Methodist collection — CDT 12.14.07 pg 3

“The plan of the committees for the future have not been completely formulated as yet, but it is understood that each sufferer will be given a weekly allowance. A great deal of money is needed to carry on this work. The committee will likely become a permanent organization as the weekly allowance plan would extend the work for many years.” (CDT 12.14.07 pg. 4)

“The members of the Central Relief Committee are as follows:

“Mrs. Sabra Cather Woodford has placed in the James & Law Company’s window a study of the California Poinsettia. The Spanish call it the “Flower of the Nativity.” This picture is for sale at the store and the money will be given to the widows and orphans of the Monongah mines.” (CDT 12.14.07 pg. 7)

The Maui News:

Richmond Palladium:

12.14.07 - pg 4 - Monongah 1 — RP 12.14.07 pg. 4

The Baltimore County Union:

“About a fourth of those who lost their lives were Americans, the others being mostly Italians.” (BCU 12.14.07 pg. 2)

“By this disaster it is said that fully 2,000 children have been made fatherless.” (BCU 12.14.07 pg. 2)

“The rich company that owns the mine is doing everything it can to relieve the sufferings of the survivors.” (BCU 12.14.07 pg. 2)

Madison Daily Leader:

12.14.07 - pg 1 - Monongah — MDL 12.14.07 pg. 1

The Afro-American Ledger:

The Wilkes-Barre Times Leader Evening in Pennsylvania manages to confuse Faustina Davia with another small girl from Monongah:

12.14.07 - pg 1 - Monongah 2 — TWBTL-E 12.14.07 pg. 1

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Saturday, December 14, 1907, Afternoon

frontThumbnail (22) — Miners’ homes along Camden Avenue in Monongah

At some point during the afternoon

In Elkins, WV:

M.A. Kendal, who has been in the city for several days assisting in the work of burying the victims of the mine disaster, has returned to his home at Elkins. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

In Fairmont:

Extended family is beginning to take custody of some of the children in Monongah. “Winnie F Donlin is appointed guardian of William R Donlin, aged 15 years, and Nora Donlin, aged 9 years, infant heirs of Thomas Donlin, deceased. Bond given in the sum of $1,000 with John O’Day as surety. Willie F Donlin appointed administrator of the personal estate of Thos. Donlin, deceased. Bond given in the sum of $2,000 with Jon O’Day as surety.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

The Jenny Wren Club meets at Geneviene and Maria Haymond’s home at Shady Side. “The members are busy making Christmas gifts for the little orphans at Monongah…” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 5)

“A number of Fairmont women who had been assisting in the Commissary at Monongah for the past week feel that the work of several colored men at the commissary was deserving of mention. They were Robert Robinson, Thomas Kelley and Daniel Harris. These men did excellent work and remained at the post until their services were no longer needed.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

Of all the reports of “newsmen” in and about Monongah, Dorothy Dale (correspondent for the United Press) has reported some of the most intimate accounts about the children of Monongah as well as some of the most condemning articles against the coal company. After visiting with several of the “little mothers” in Monongah, like Faustina Davia, she and her photographer work less and less on reporting these events to the world and become more focused and active in the local relief work.

During the afternoon, she and her photographer, L. Van Oeyen, turn over $2,800.00 in donations to J.E. Sands. “Miss Dale has been here for several days and realizes the needs of the families at Monongah.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 1)

In Monongah:

John Neary arrives from PA and offers aid in rescue work. (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 1)

“In addition…Miss Dale and Mr. Oeyen will this afternoon give toys and presents of different kinds to the children and mothers at Monongah. It is their purpose to look after the needs of the individuals and brighten as many homes as possible.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 1)

~3:00 pm

In Fairmont:

The consolidation of the Monongah Relief Committee and the General Relief Committee are put into effect at Mayor Arnett’s office in Fairmont. (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 1)

The committee is officially enlarged and a subscription committee is appointed. “The committee which now embraces all committees is to be known as the Monongah Mines Relief Committee.” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 1)

In Monongah:

12.14.07 - pg 1 - headline — FWV 12.14.07 pg 1

R.T. Cunningham has finished checking the community census and “the number of miners missing is 344”. (FWV 12.14.07 pg.1)

~3:30 (Press Time)

In Fairmont:

300 funerals have been handled by 3 establishments in one week. “A feature…about which not very much has been said has been the hard work of the local undertakers in burying the dead.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

“As soon as it was learned that a large number of people had lost their lives in the explosion Mr. C.W. Watson…called in the local undertakers and asked them to take charge of the work of caring for the dead.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

“The Jenkins establishment in the First Ward was given 20 funerals and the remainder was divided equally among three on this side, E. Musgrave & Sons, R.C. Jones and R.L. Cunningham.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

“Up to date 322 bodies have been buried, so that each of the three have had approximately 100 funerals.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

“The local firms employed some assistants and one of the undertakers today said that probably about 30 men had been engaged in burying the dead.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

“Only those connected with this work realize what a strain this has been and how much anxiety it has caused. The work has been done well and the local undertakers are deserving much credit for their faithfulness during this trying period.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

In Monongah:

J.H. McDermott publishes a statement:

“I have myself made a careful inspection at Monongah, going there immediately after the disaster. The information I received there first hand will, I believe, enable me to handle intelligently any phase that may develop before legislature.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 5)

“I was much amused by the newspaper correspondents dubbing me lieutenant governor, an office which we do not have in this state, though the president of the senate performs much the same duties. I did not go to Monongah as the special representative of the governor as has been inferred by many but asked the governor myself for authority to make the inspection which he granted.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 5)

“The inspection I made for my own knowledge, though incidentally I made a sort of informal report to Governor Dawson which will not be made public unless he gives it out.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 5)

“In my report to the governor I suggested to him the necessity for the founding of a school of mining in this State. Not a small affair, but one upon a large scale upon which there should be no lack of money lavished. This school could be maintained through a special tax or revenue from the coal interests which I believe these interests would find in the results profitable to pay.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 5)

“At the last session of the legislature I asked for a hundred thousand dollars for the purpose, but I failed. In the light of recent events, I believe the legislature will see the light and this should be one of the important matters before the body.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 5)

“I was down in the mine and believe from my personal observation that the cause of the explosion may be traced to the runaway trip…this I believe created a current behind it that sucked in coal dust and other explosives and when the trolley wire broke it ignited the mass. This explosion, I believe, traveled on in the direction the trip was going and continued through the connection into No. 8, passed along it and finally emerged from the mouth of that mine.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 5)

“It gathered force as it progressed, I believe. That is only my opinion but it seems to be borne out by the condition of the bodies recovered. The report of the mine inspector will, however, be the official report to the governor.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 5)

Sen. JH McDermott home in Morgantown - WVU historyonreview — Home of Sen. J.H. McDermott in Morgantown

More on How Death Gloated!

Saturday, December 14, 1907, Midnight—Morning

In the middle of the night

In Morgantown:

Fire breaks out in the home of O.P Corbin at Sturgisson on Decker’s Creek. “Mr. Corbin, his wife, and the youngest child, who were sleeping on the first floor of the home, were awakened by the roaring flames which before their discovery had made such headway that access to the second floor by the stairway was impossible.” 4 children were sleeping on second floor, Russel, aged 17, the oldest son, made his escape but was unable to rescue the other children. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 1)

“Mr. Corbin climbed to second story and tried to make entrance by a window but in each instance the fury of the flames would not permit entrance.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 1)

The Corbin house was entirely consumed as well as a house next door. “A brother of Mrs. Corbin, James McGregor, escaped from the second floor but was badly burned in his effort to rescue the children.” 3 of the children died: Rachel, 15; James, 7; Susie, 5. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 1)

By Morning

12.15.07 - pg 1 - Monongah — SLT 12.15.07 pg 1

~9:30 am

In Clarksburg:

“The remains of Patrick Louchney, who was killed in No. 8 mine at Monongah when the terrible explosion occurred, were buried in Holy Cross cemetery in this city Saturday morning. The remains were brought here on the interurban trolley car arriving at 9:30 o’clock and from the car they were taken to the Church of the Immaculate Conception…” (CDT 1214.07 pg. 1)

~10:00 am

Funeral services are held for Patrick Louchney at the Church of the Immaculate Conception and are “attended by a large number of sorrowing friends. Mr. Louchney was 69 years old, single and formerly resided in Clarksburg. He was well known and a favorite among many friends in this section. His remains were found badly mangled, Thursday afternoon.” (CDT 1214.07 pg. 1)

At some point during the morning

In Fairmont:

The Fairmont West Virginian reports the weather as: rain in the south, heavy snow in the north tonight (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 1)

12.14.07 - pg 4 - slippery out again — FWV 12.14.07 pg 4

Mayor Arnett receives a card from his nephew, Olney Boaz Stuart, telling him of charity concert in Chicago. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 1)

Chester Williamson of Morgantown (formerly of Fairmont) stops in Fairmont on his way home. “Mr. Williamson has been employed in the morgue at Monongah since last week.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

1906--marion-county-suspension-bridge — Fairmont, 1906

“W.C. Parker, county health officer, has returned from Monongah and reports that the sanitary conditions there are very good. The clothing taken from the dead miners’ bodies was hauled out and burned. Mr. Parker says that there were some 15 wagon loads of clothes of the victims hauled out and destroyed.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg.1)

“The miners have already started subscription papers and the money that is raised will be turned over to the general relief committee. Papers are being circulated at every mine operated by the Fairmont Coal Company and at many of the mines operated by the companies that are closely allied with FCC.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg.1)

“Several of the mines of the George’s Creek Coal and Iron Company are circulating subscription papers. The miners are responding very liberally to the fund.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg.1)

In Monongah:

Despite speculation over the past week, the date of the inquest into the Monongah disaster is “still not determined.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg.1)

“Preparations are being made for commencing the inquest by Coroner Amos at Monongah. The date as yet, however, has not been definitely decided upon, and will not be until Chief Mine Inspector Paul returns from Fayette City, Pa., where he went to investigate conditions at the ill-fated Naomi mine. Mr. Paul is expected to return this evening, and a conference will be held upon the arrival of his train.” (CDT 12.14.07 pg. 3)

“It was first believed that the inquest would start on Wednesday, Dec. 18, but Mr. Paul desired the coroner to wait until he returned before the day is named.” (CDT 12.14.07 pg. 3)

“The relief corps was again active today in distributing food and supplies to the needy. Food was dispensed as before from the building opposite the company offices and the good work is progressing nicely.” (CDT 12.14.07 pg. 4)

At the mines:

“All is very quiet in Monongah today. The two forces of 45 men each were at work today clearing up the falls.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg.1)

“This work of moving the falls is being carried along as fast as it is possible and before it is done other bodies are expected to be found.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 1)

“Forces of men are still at work in both mines, clearing away falls and debris and trying to locate more bodies.” (CDT 12.14.07 pg. 1)

The bodies of 3 men are taken out of #6. “This brings the total up to 325.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg.1)

A few miles south of Monongah:

Officials and clerks at the Gypsy mines and store contribute 40 pairs of shoes to the Monongah relief efforts. (FWV 12.14.07 pg.1)

More on How Death Gloated!

Friday, December 13, 1907, Evening—Night

“Had the company so ordered the men would have stuck to their picks until they dropped over overcome, but the officers did not so will it. In their eyes one single human life, even that of a Bohemian, Hungarian or Slav, is of infinitely more value than the bodies of the dead, however desirable it may be to recover them for the last tender glance of the women yet wailing about the guard lines.” (MJ 12.13.07 pg. 6)

Evening

In Kingmont, WV:

WVA 12.19.07 - pg 2 - MinersMonongah — WVA 12.19.07 – pg 2

In Monongah:

“Tonight the officials received information which slightly increases the estimate of the total dead.” (BDT 12.14.07 pg. 1)

Night

Frank Zook who had been employed in the morgue at Monongah, returns home to Wheeling. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

In Fairmont:

Undertaker R.L Cunningham returns to his home and while much better, he is still confined to his house. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)

At the Fairmont Normal Auditorium, the Athletic Association assisted by the Student Association puts on a small Shakespeare production in which: “The best and most interesting parts from Othello, Julius Caesar, and the Merchant of Venice will be presented.” (FWV 12.12.07 pg. )

“The public is urged to attend this entertainment and we feel sure that we have something that will please you. Admission, 25c. The entire proceeds of a collection taken this morning by the Students Association will be turned over to the Monongah sufferers. The collection was taken during Chapel exercises, and amounted to $17.10.” (FWV 12.12.07 pg. )

In Chicago:

Nobles of Medinah Temple give a grand charity concert for the “widows and orphans of great Monongah disaster”. (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 1)

“The best musical talent of Chicago was employed.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 1)

“There was no contribution taken up at this meeting but a bushel basket was placed at the door and each man, woman and child were requested to drop in a dollar or more. This fund will be forwarded to the general relief fund.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 1)

“Olney Boaz Stuart, a former West Virginia boy but now a leading lawyer of Chicago, gave an address in which he portrayed the conditions as they exist…” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 1)

O.B. Stuart sends a card with this information to his uncle, Mayor Arnett in Fairmont. (FWV 12.20.07 pg. 1)

$204.60 is raised (FWV 12.20.07 pg. 1)

In Monongah:

Efforts begin to be made to record the location and count of bodies. Now that the community census is considered to be complete, the company would no longer try to make an estimated guess but would rely on the information taken and provided by Robert Cunningham.

“The results of a house census shows that 338 men are missing in addition that a number of contractors and hired men are believed to have been in the mine when the explosion occurred.” (LET 12.13.07 pg. 1)

“A total of 320 bodies has been recovered, leaving eighteen in the mine, according to the company’s figures.” (LET 12.13.07 pg. 1)